Weeping Grass

(Microlaena stipoides)

Weeping Grass (Microlaena stipoides)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Microlaena stipoides, commonly known as Weeping Grass, is a perennial grass that is evergreen, providing year-round interest in the landscape. It is native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and forest understories in Australia, as well as similar ecosystems in New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Philippines. This grass typically reaches up to 2 feet in height and is characterized by its delicate, drooping stalks of spikelets which give it a graceful appearance. Weeping Grass is particularly noted for its fine texture and the ability to maintain a deep green color throughout the year.

Weeping Grass is valued for its drought and frost tolerance, making it a versatile choice for gardeners in a range of climates. It thrives in acidic soils and prefers areas with medium to high rainfall, although it can withstand periods of dryness once established. This grass is commonly used for pasture due to its nutritious qualities, as well as for turf in lawns and public spaces where low maintenance and resilience are desired. It can also be used for small-scale grain production. In cultivation, Weeping Grass benefits from full sun to part shade and requires well-drained soil. While it is generally easy to maintain, it can be susceptible to rust diseases under certain conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and forest understories in Australia, as well as similar ecosystems in New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Philippines

Other Names

Common Names: Weeping Rice Grass, Weeping Grass

Scientific Names: , Microlaena stipoides, Ehrharta stipoides, Ehrhartia stipoides,

GBIF Accepted Name: